Meniscal Tear

A meniscal tear is a tear in the meniscus. The meniscus is cartilage, which acts as a shock-absorbing structure in the knee. There are two menisci in each knee, a medial one on the inside, and a lateral one on the outside.
There are different types of tears depending on the location and how they look. Treatment depends on the severity of the tear.

Most injuries to the meniscus are caused by trauma. This usually includes compression and twisting of the knee. Because the aging process tends to break down the inner tissues of the meniscus, minor trauma can injure the meniscus in an older adult.

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Factors that may increase your risk of:

Degenerative tears:

Increasing age, especially over 60 years old

Male gender

Occupations that involve kneeling and squatting

Climbing stairs

Previous knee injuries

Obesity

Acute tears:

Participating in contact sports, such as soccer or rugby

Poor techniques for jumping, landing, pivoting, and cutting

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Symptoms may include:

A popping sound at the time of the injury

Pain and swelling in the knee

Tightness in the knee

Locking up, catching, or giving way of the knee

Tenderness in the joint

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You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your knee may need to be viewed. This can be done with:

X-ray

MRI scan

Arthroscopy

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Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Recovery time ranges depend on the severity of your injury. Physical Therapy treatment may include:

Gentle stretching to keep the mobility in your knee

Strengthening exercises to make your entire leg stronger and balance exercises to reduce your risk of falling and re-injury